Some people go for Sunday jogs, others go to Sunday service, I go for Sunday brunch.
Call me dramatic or even excessive but I genuinely don't feel like my weekend is complete without a brunch date (or sometimes two). Whether it's chez moi, rustling up my rustic fool proofs such as blueberry pancakes (courtesy of Nigella Lawson) and Oeuf en Cocotte (Merci, Rachel Khoo) or sampling one of the many gems of the brunch world, my diary on a Sunday morning between 11-1pm will always be predictably reserved for brunch.
Blueberry pancakes with creme fraiche a la Nigella
Oeufs en cocotte a la the fabulous Ms Khoo
Having been ordained the Brunch Connoisseur (albeit self appointed), I thought I would share my top 5 brunch establishments in London with you.
Caravan | This bright and airy restaurant, a refurbished grain store in Kings cross has a trendy but laid-back sort of vibe and offers the "usuals" with a mexican twist. It is usually jam packed on a Sunday morning so book online or be prepared to "sing for your supper". My money is on the Raclette and spinach french toast with bacon.
The Modern Pantry | With the appearance of an old townhouse, The Modern Pantry in Clerkenwell builds its brunch menu from some of the most unusual ingredients from around the globe. This is a real treat for the devoted foodies amongst you. The menu includes sweetcorn, feta, curry leaf and green chilli waffle with bacon and muffins with kumquat marmalade. The real jewels are the private rooms, seating between 12-25 people and complete with your own waiter.
Riding House Cafe | If you had somewhere more central in mind, look no further than this Fitzrovia based establishment. The ambience and architecture is simply sublime, with a myriad of antiques and curios. My only criticism is that this isn't a place that you can just wander into as even the staff dress to impress.
Haberdashery | In stark contrast to Riding House Cafe, this wonderful cafe in Crouch End would serve you in your pyjamas. Its like brunching in your (somewhat quirky and eclectic) living room. The food is wholesome and fresh, with the ingredients sourced locally. Food ranges from a hearty cooked breakfast to a falafel burger.
Kipferi | My former local back in my Islington residing days, this charming Austrian cafe all began with a small kiosk in London. Although the service is sometimes a little slow, believe me, the food is worth the wait. As are the unique touches - food comes on a tray and the eggs and bacon come in a sauce pan. ps. The cakes are delicious too.
Almost made the cut - Minkies Deli - Kensal Rise, The Alice House - Queens Park, Dishoom - Shoreditch and The Wolseley
Desperate to try - Grain Store - Kings cross, Berners Tavern - Oxford Circus, Gails Kitchen and Balthazar
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